Lifting Safely: Preventing Common Crane and Lift Injuries on Job Sites

Cranes and lifts are essential for construction, manufacturing, and industrial projects, but they also pose significant risks. Every year, workers suffer severe injuries due to improper operation, poor maintenance, and lack of safety measures. In fact, crane-related accidents alone account for an average of 42 fatalities per year in the United States, with many more injuries resulting from falls, collapses, and electrocutions (Source: https://www.bls.gov).

At The Low Law Firm in Abilene, Texas, we’ve seen firsthand how preventable crane and lift accidents can lead to life-altering injuries. Whether you’re an operator, a ground worker, or a site manager, prioritizing safety is essential. This blog explores the most common causes of crane and lift injuries, how to prevent them, and the legal rights of injured workers.

Common Causes of Crane and Lift Injuries

1. Inadequate Operator Training
   Cranes and lifts require specialized knowledge to operate safely. However, many job sites fail to ensure that operators receive proper certification and hands-on training. Inexperience can lead to miscalculations, such as improper load balancing or failing to recognize environmental hazards. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates that crane operators be certified through accredited programs to minimize risks (Source: https://www.osha.gov).
2. Equipment Malfunctions and Mechanical Failures
   Routine inspections are critical for identifying mechanical issues before they cause catastrophic failures. Broken cables, hydraulic leaks, and worn-out brakes are common culprits in crane and lift accidents. In a recent case, a faulty hydraulic system on a boom lift resulted in a 30-foot fall, leading to permanent spinal cord injuries for the worker involved (Source: https://www.nsc.org).
3. Falling Objects and Load Failures
   A poorly secured load can shift unexpectedly, dropping heavy materials onto workers below. In 2019, falling objects were responsible for 93 fatalities in the construction industry alone (Source: https://www.osha.gov). Proper rigging techniques, regular equipment checks, and communication between operators and ground workers can significantly reduce this risk.
4. Electrocution Hazards
   Contact with overhead power lines is one of the leading causes of crane-related fatalities. According to OSHA, nearly 45% of crane-related electrocutions occur when booms or metal components make contact with live wires (Source: https://www.osha.gov). Employers are responsible for ensuring that cranes and lifts maintain a safe distance from electrical hazards.
5. Failure to Follow Load Limits
   Every crane and lift has a maximum load capacity, but exceeding these limits can result in tipping or collapse. Overloaded equipment is especially dangerous in windy conditions or on unstable ground. Site supervisors must strictly enforce weight restrictions and conduct load calculations before each lift.

Best Practices for Crane and Lift Safety

1. Ensure Proper Training and Certification
   • All crane and lift operators should undergo accredited certification programs.
   • Refresher courses should be provided regularly to maintain skills and awareness of evolving safety regulations.
2. Conduct Routine Equipment Inspections
   • Check for hydraulic leaks, worn cables, and structural damage before use.
   • Implement daily safety checklists to ensure all parts are in proper working order.
3. Implement a Clear Communication System
   • Use hand signals, radios, or warning alarms to coordinate movements between operators and ground workers.
   • Assign a designated signal person to guide crane operations.
4. Secure Work Zones and Prevent Unauthorized Access
   • Establish barriers around crane operation areas to keep unauthorized personnel at a safe distance.
   • Post visible warning signs around high-risk zones.
5. Follow OSHA Safety Guidelines
   • Maintain safe distances from power lines and overhead structures.
   • Keep proper documentation of inspections and maintenance records.
6. Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
   • Hard hats, high-visibility vests, and steel-toed boots should be mandatory on job sites.
   • Fall protection harnesses should be used when working at elevated heights.

Legal Rights for Injured Workers

If you or a loved one has been injured in a crane or lift accident, you may have legal options. Texas law allows injured workers to seek compensation through:

1. Workers’ Compensation Claims
   • Covers medical expenses and lost wages for job-related injuries.
   • Does not require proving fault, but benefits may be limited.
2. Personal Injury Lawsuits
   • If negligence by an employer, contractor, or equipment manufacturer contributed to the accident, a personal injury claim may provide additional compensation.
   • This can include damages for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and long-term disability.
3. Product Liability Cases
   • If a defective crane or lift caused the injury, the manufacturer may be held liable.
   • These cases require proving that the equipment was faulty and directly led to the accident.

How The Low Law Firm Can Help

At The Low Law Firm, we are committed to protecting the rights of injured workers across Texas. Led by Tara Gilmore-Low, our team has extensive experience handling construction site injuries, crane and lift accidents, and workplace liability cases.

We fight to recover compensation for:

• Medical bills and rehabilitation costs.
• Lost wages and future earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering due to long-term disability or trauma.

Our goal is to hold negligent employers, contractors, and manufacturers accountable while ensuring our clients receive the justice they deserve.

Advocating for Safer Job Sites

By enforcing safety protocols, providing proper training, and ensuring routine maintenance, construction companies and employers can drastically reduce crane and lift accidents. Legal action plays a crucial role in holding negligent parties responsible and preventing future tragedies.

Moving Forward: Stay Safe, Stay Protected

Every worker has the right to a safe job site. If you’ve been injured due to unsafe working conditions, defective equipment, or an employer’s negligence, The Low Law Firm is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.